SEM Examination and Analysis of the Interface Character in Surface Modified Aramid-Epoxy Composite

Abstract:

The surface of Kevlar fibers is chemically modified by treatment with Phthalic anhydride (PA) and the effect is examined by SEM for the laser cut, three point bending and interlaminar shear delaminated surfaces. The surface modification improved the adhesion to epoxy resin that clearly leads to cohesive fracture as opposed to interfacial failure in the untreated specimen. SEM reveals marginal surface roughening of fibers without compromising their strength. The interface modification technique described in this paper is attractive thermodynamically as it does not compromise surface free energy of the polymer matrix or that of the fiber itself to enhance wetability.

• Periodical: Key Engineering Materials (Volumes 510-511)
• Pages: 443-447
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.4028/www.scientific.net/KEM.510-511.443
• Online since: May 2012
• Authors: S. Hussain, Mohammad Bilal Khan, R. Hussain
• Keywords: Aramid Fibers, Composite, SEM, Surface Modification

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